Snakebites prompt fast-track treatment channel in flooded Guangxi county

Local authorities in Hengzhou, Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, have expanded antivenom supplies, opened a fast-track treatment channel for snakebites, and deployed medical experts after flooding heightened the risk of snake encounters, the Nanning Media Convergence Center reported.

The measures came after floodwaters inundated a snake farm in Yunbiao township, allowing captive cobras, king ratsnakes, and water snakes to escape, according to previous reports by Xinhua News Agency.

Residents have reported frequent snake sightings since the flooding began, with several snakebite cases already reported, Xinhua said.

Hengzhou People's Hospital has expanded its antivenom stockpile to meet treatment demand, while medical experts have been sent to provide on-site guidance for snakebite treatment, according to the center.

Authorities have also intensified patrols, set up temporary medical stations in Yunbiao, and streamlined emergency registration, examination, and treatment for snakebite patients to shorten response times.

Health authorities are training frontline medical workers in snakebite treatment and warning residents to avoid going outdoors at night and to stay away from overgrown fields, ditches, and other areas where snakes may be hiding.